PDS Counseling Newsletter
August 5th, 2024
🍁 November Newsletter 🍁
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Family Engagement Month
However, we also recognize that not all families have equal access to engagement opportunities. Factors such as work schedules, language barriers, or unfamiliarity with school systems can create obstacles. Schools have a responsibility to acknowledge these challenges and create flexible, inclusive pathways for involvement.
Tips for Families to Stay Engaged
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Maintain open communication with your child’s teachers and counselor.
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Talk regularly with your child about their school day. Ask about both academic and social experiences.
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Set academic and personal goals together and revisit them throughout the semester.
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Participate in school events when possible, even if virtually.
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Use school platforms like Parent Square, ParentVUE and Google Classroom to stay engaged.
Reach out to our Parent Instructional Support Coordinator, Mrs. Lucia Trevino to learn more about parent engagement opportunities at the school.
🎓 November Reminders by Grade Level
🟦 9th Grade
- Check In on Habits: You're a few months into high school! Are your study habits working for you? If not, now is the time to adjust before finals.
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Take Advantage of Support: Ask about tutoring, Flex Blocks, or study groups if you’re struggling in a class.
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Mental Health Matters: If the transition to high school feels overwhelming, reach out to your school counselor. We're here to help!
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Get Involved: Try out a club or student activity. It’s a great way to meet people and build a sense of community.
🟩10th Grade
- Explore Careers: Start thinking about your interests and strengths. SchooLinks and GA Futures have great career interest tools!
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Set Goals for Semester 2: Reflect on your grades so far. What’s going well? What needs attention?
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Plan for Credit Recovery (if needed): If you’re failing a core class, ask your counselor what your options are.
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Get Familiar with Dual Enrollment: If you’re interested in taking college classes in 11th and 12th grade, learn what it takes to qualify. Reach out to Ms. Patel with questions!
🟪11th Grade
- Start Your College & Career Research: It’s not too early! Visit websites, make lists, and think about what you want after high school.
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Start Preparing for the SAT: Khan Academy has a great FREE test prep tool!
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Explore Dual Enrollment: This is the ideal year to get a jumpstart on college credit.
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Talk to Your Counselor: Ask about career pathways, test prep, and how to strengthen your college applications.
🟨12th Grade
- Apply to College or Trade Programs: Many deadlines fall in November. Don’t wait!
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Submit the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is essential for financial aid.
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Check Graduation Status: Are you on track with credits? Meet with your counselor to double-check.
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Stay Focused: Senioritis can sneak up! Keep up with assignments and attendance!
Counseling Announcements 📢
Counseling Office Procedures
The Counseling Office operates by appointment only.
Students can request an appointment with their counselor by clicking here or by scanning the QR code posted in the Counseling Office. After submitting a request, students will receive a pass when their counselor is available to meet. In some cases, if the question can be more easily addressed by email, the counselor may respond that way instead.
If a student is experiencing a mental health emergency, they should come directly to the Counseling Office, no appointment needed.
Parents and guardians may request an appointment by phone or email. We're happy to assist you in scheduling a time to meet with us!
PDS Counseling Website
We have a new website with helpful information about our department and request counseling appointments, find relevant information for each grade level, college and career and dual enrollment!
Counseling Events
Trade/Apprenticeship Mini Fair
When: Wednesday, November 5
Who: All Grades, Intervention Block
What: Representatives from various trades and apprenticeship programs will present information about their respective career paths.
Benedict College Lunch Visit (HBCU)
When: Thursday, November 6 in the Commons
Who: All grades
Georgia Southwestern State University Lunch Visit
When: Wednesday, November 12 in the Commons
Who: All grades
Financial Aid Night
When: Wednesday, November 12 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm LH100
Who: 12th grade students and families
What: A representative from various colleges will be here to help students/families complete the FAFSA application that potentially goes live October 1st. Spanish speakers will be present. Students - bring your chromebook.
Coffee with Counselors
When: Thursday, November 13, 7:15-8:30am
Who: Parents/Guardians of all grades
What: Counselors will be available to answer questions that parents/guardians have about all things counseling related
Counseling Advisory Council
When: Friday, November 14, LH100 12:38-1:50pm (5th Block)
Who: All Paul Duke STEM Stakeholders and Community Members
What: This is an opportunity for all Paul Duke STEM Stakeholders to share your insights and ideas to improve student support services, stay informed about counseling initiatives, and help create a more inclusive, responsive and effective school environment.
Dual Enrollment Interest Meeting
When: Thursday, November 20, LH100
Who: 10th - 11th grade students & families interested in learning more about DE
What: Any family interested in having their student participate in Dual Enrollment in the future. Georgia Tech will not be covered in this meeting.
💜 CARE Team 💜
Use the form below to refer yourself or someone you know to CARE team. A counselor will get in touch with you! 😊
PDS CARE Team Amazon Wishlist
CARE Team is always accepting donations of items in our wishlist! Your generosity is appreciated.
Who To Contact 📥
Who To Contact:
Sofia Cevallos - 9th and 10th grade, Last Names A-K (sofia.cevallos@gcpsk12.org)
Tony Rhone - 9th and 10th grade, Last Names L-Z (tony.rhone@gcpsk12.org)
Donyale Turner - 11th and 12th grade, Last Names A-K (donyale.turner@gcpsk12.org)
Justin Francisco- 11th and 12th grade, Last Names L-Z (justin.francisco@gcpsk12.org)
Leslie Patel - College & Career Counselor, Dual Enrollment Coordinator (leslie.patel@gcpsk12.org)
Ashley Morris - Special Projects (ashley.morris@gcpsk12.org)
Devin Jones - Administrator (devin.jones@gcpsk12.org)
College Corner 🎓
College & Career Center Website
Check out Ms. Patel's College & Career Center Website!
The College and Career Center is here to help Paul Duke STEM High School students plan for their future after graduation. We are here to help students reach their goals, develop a plan to achieve them, and provide them with the most up-to-date information that ensures each student is successful with their post-secondary options. This includes four-year college, community college, military enlistment, employment, and/or vocational training.
Letters of Recommendation (12th graders only)
Use the form below to request a Letter of Recommendation from your counselor!
2025-2026 College Board SAT & ACT Dates
Scholarship Table 💰
November Scholarship Deadlines
Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards
Scholarship Description
The Youth Awards was founded in 1998 by the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. Now entering its 27th year, the Youth Awards honors Latino high school seniors who excel in the classroom and community and for their excellence in various categories including: Community Service, Education, Engineering, Entrepreneurship & Business, Green Sustainability, Healthcare & Science, Media & Entertainment, Public Service & Social Justice, and Technology.
Scholarship Details
- Honors Latino high school seniors in multiple categories
- Gold, Silver, and Bronze recipients in each category
- One-time grant for college education or community service
Eligibility Criteria
- Latino high school seniors
- Excel in academics and community involvement
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Categories include Community Service, Education, Engineering, Entrepreneurship & Business, Green Sustainability, Healthcare & Science, Media & Entertainment, Public Service & Social Justice, and Technology
Application Process
- Submit application for the Youth Awards
- Specify the category and showcase achievements
- Gold, Silver, and Bronze recipients selected
- Virtual ceremonies celebrate the achievements
The Youth Awards program is the main pipeline to Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s (HHF) system of talent that prepares and positions Latino youth through the award-winning Latinos On Fast Track (LOFT) program as they transition from high school, to college, to graduate school, and into their careers.
Application Deadline: November 2
Colgate-Palmolive Haz La U Scholarship
Scholarship Description
Colgate, in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, is proud to sponsor "Haz La U" (Make the U), a college grant program designed for high school seniors of Hispanic heritage. This grant program is part of the Foundation's Youth Awards, offering $100,000 in total support. The program recognizes students who have shown a commitment to academic excellence, community service, and leadership.
Scholarship Details
- $100,000 in total support across 31 educational grants
- For high school seniors of Hispanic heritage (including Spain, Brazil, and the Philippines)
Eligibility Criteria
- Currently enrolled in high school and scheduled to graduate in the spring
- Minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or 7.5 on a 10.0 scale
- Plan to enroll in an accredited higher education institution for the upcoming academic year
- Must be of Hispanic heritage
Application Process
- Complete the scholarship application
- Provide details about your dedication to academic excellence, community service, and leadership
- Visit the Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s Youth Awards application page for more information on eligibility and the application process
HHF’s mission focuses on education, workforce development, societal impact, and leadership, with culture serving as the cornerstone of its mission. Through HHF’s 27-year-old Youth Awards program, tens of thousands of high-achieving high school students have been recognized and received more than five million dollars to support their education, ideas, or projects.
Application Deadline: November 2
Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholarship
Scholarship Description
Each year, nearly 1,900 students enter the Regeneron STS, submitting original research in critically important scientific fields of study. Unique among high school competitions, the Regeneron STS focuses on identifying, inspiring, and engaging the most promising scientists among the nation’s high school seniors. All Regeneron STS entrants must follow the official rules of entry, which outline eligibility requirements, ethics statements, and rules for scientific research.
Scholarship Details
- Focus: Identifying and inspiring future leaders in the field of science
- Total Annual Awards: $3.1 million
- First Place Prize: $250,000, the largest academic prize available to a U.S. high school student
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be in their final year of high school.
- They should be completing the necessary high school courses for college applications.
- Applicants must not have graduated from high school before the Regeneron STS application deadline.
- Previous participation in any prior STS is not allowed.
Application Process
- Prepare your application for the Regeneron Science Talent Search, including your original research in scientific fields.
- Follow the official rules of entry outlined in the application guidelines.
- Submit all required materials and application before the deadline.
If you are a high school senior with a passion for scientific research and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge, the Regeneron Science Talent Search is a remarkable opportunity.
Application Deadline: November 6
Modeling the Future Challenge
Scholarship Description
The Modeling the Future Challenge is a real-world competition for high school students combining math-modeling, data-analysis, and risk-management into one exciting challenge! To compete, students conduct their own research project modeling real-world data to analyze risks and make recommendations to companies, industry groups, governments, or organizations.
Scholarship Details
- Teams of one to five high school students work together on actuarial research projects, making recommendations based on mathematical models, real-world data analysis, and risk management.
- The top research teams have the opportunity to win a share of the $60,000 scholarship award presented at the national MTFC Symposium.
Eligibility Criteria
- This competition is open to high school students in their junior or senior year, whether they are part of formal, informal, or homeschool groups.
- Participants are tasked with conducting an actuarial research project and providing recommendations to relevant entities based on their mathematical models and data analysis.
- Teams that pass Phase One receive guidance from actuarial mentors to refine their project proposals.
Application Process
- Assemble a team of one to five high school students who are passionate about math modeling and data analysis.
- Conduct an actuarial research project and develop recommendations for companies, organizations, or government agencies.
- Teams that advance beyond Phase One receive mentorship from experienced actuaries to further enhance their project proposals.
- The top research teams are invited to the national MTFC Symposium to present their work and compete for scholarship awards.
This challenge tasks students to use critical thinking, mathematical reasoning, and analytical skills to help guide future decisions based on your own risk analysis! You’ll also have a shot at your part of the $60,000 award purse!
Application Deadline: November 9
Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarship
Scholarship Description
The Elks National Foundation will award 500 four-year scholarships to the highest-rated applicants in the competition. Male and female students compete separately. Most Valuable Student scholarships are for students pursuing a four-year degree on a full-time basis (minimum of 12 semester hours) in a U.S. college or university. All scholarships are in the form of certificates of award conditional upon the full-time enrollment of the winner in an accredited U.S. college or university.
The top 20 scholars will interview with the national judges. These 20 finalists will be vying for two first-place awards of $30,000. The 480 runners-up will receive scholarships of $4,000. Attendance at Leadership Weekend is required to be part of the Top 20 cohort and receive $30,000. (Many local lodges, districts and state Elks associations award their own scholarships through this program. These scholarships are not to be confused with the 500 Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarships.)
Application Deadline: November 12
Greenhouse Scholars Whole Person College Program
Scholarship Description
Becoming a Greenhouse Scholar is the first action in a series of positive events that will create change in you, your community, and the world. Through the innovative Whole Person Program, we offer comprehensive support encompassing personal, professional, and financial guidance over a transformative 5-year span during your undergraduate years.
Scholarship Details
- Comprehensive 5-year support program.
- Includes mentorship, professional networking, leadership training, internship support, community projects, flexible funding grants, and a renewable college scholarship.
- Scholarship covers up to $5,000 per year.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a graduating high school senior planning to attend a four-year accredited academic institution
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a legal resident of California (select counties only), Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, or Utah
- Have a cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.5 or above
- Demonstrate financial need (annual household income no greater than $80,000)
- Possess excellent leadership skills, an ability to persevere through difficult circumstances, and a strong interest in and commitment to your community
Application Process
- Report unweighted GPA, household income, and geographic location to confirm eligibility, and submit 1 short answer response. Eligible applicants will be invited to Part 2 on a rolling basis.
- Submit transcript, ACT/SAT test scores, two letters of recommendation, and four written responses of up to 500 words.
- Semi-finalists have two weeks to create and submit a five-minute video response and submit proof of income documents.
Finalists will be invited to an interview. Interviews will be held between March 23rd - April 2nd from 4pm - 8pm in the following cities: Los Angeles (CA), Boulder (CO), Denver (CO), Atlanta (GA), Chicago (IL), New York (NY), Raleigh (NC), Charlotte (NC), and Salt Lake City (UT). Interviews are in-person only, virtual interviews will not be permitted.
Application Deadline: November 13
Georgia Engineering Foundation Scholarships
Scholarship Description
Georgia Engineering Foundation is pleased to offer scholarships to freshman, upperclassmen, and graduate students who are residents of Georgia and attending eligible engineering, engineering technology and construction management programs. Eligible programs include current ABET- accredited undergraduate and graduate engineering/engineering technology programs and ACCE accredited construction management programs.
For over 50 years, the Georgia Engineering Foundation has sponsored a program that awards college scholarships to worthy Georgia students who are preparing for a career in engineering or engineering technology. Since 1985, over 1200 students have been awarded scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
Scholarship Details
- Scholarships available for freshman, upperclassmen, and graduate students.
- Eligible programs include ABET-accredited engineering/engineering technology and ACCE-accredited construction management programs.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be residents of Georgia.
- Must be enrolled in an eligible engineering, engineering technology, or construction management program.
Application Process
- Prepare the required electronic files, including a casual photo (jpg format), transcript (official for freshmen, unofficial for upperclassmen and graduates initially), and SAT/ACT scores if not included in the high school transcript.
- Complete the online application and upload the additional materials.
- For incoming freshmen, provide the names and email addresses of three references.
You are required to complete all questions on the online application before you can submit. Text boxes will expand to accommodate the text as needed. Please make sure to use punctuation to separate content for reviewers. Please do not use bullets, arrows or other “special” characters within your text as these can be misinterpreted by the online application software and could result in loss of information.
Application Deadline: November 14
Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award
Scholarship Description
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation supports talented musicians from limited financial backgrounds through its scholarship programs and sponsorship of the Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award. The Foundation recognizes that musically talented youth from low-income families often lack the funding for private lessons, master classes, quality instruments, summer programs, and performance experiences. These musicians miss out on the creativity and stimulation that comes from being surrounded by an ensemble of talented peers sharing high music aspirations and being led by inspiring faculty.
Scholarship Details
- Award amount: $10,000 scholarship for 20 young musicians each year
- Opportunity to perform on NPR and PBS's From the Top
- Includes arts leadership training
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages 8 to 18, demonstrating financial need
- Classically trained instrumentalists, vocalists, and/or composers
- Active in community service and academic pursuits
Application Process
- Demonstrate financial need and outstanding musical talent
- Apply for the award showcasing your commitment to music and community service
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation typically awards only a limited number of grants to nonprofit organizations whose efforts complement our mission of advancing the education of exceptionally promising students who have financial need. We rarely, if ever, fund unsolicited proposals.
Application Deadline: November 15
National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholars Program
Scholarship Description
Since 2013, the National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholarship has offered a unique opportunity for a student to deliver the keynote address at the prestigious Goddard Memorial Dinner—an event attended by top space industry leaders. In addition to speaking at this high-profile event, the selected student receives a $20,000 scholarship to support their STEM academic journey. This award recognizes excellence in academics, public speaking, and passion for a career in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
Scholarship Details
- $20,000 scholarship awarded for tuition for the upcoming academic year
- Opportunity to deliver the keynote speech at the Goddard Memorial Dinner
- Travel and lodging for the recipient and one guest are covered
- Recognition at one of the most prestigious gatherings in the space industry
- Scholarship check paid directly to the recipient’s college or university
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Open to high school seniors through graduate students
- Must be pursuing a career in a STEM field
- Must plan to attend an accredited U.S. college or university
- Applicants must not have previously spoken at the Goddard Memorial Dinner
Application Process
- Complete the online application by November 17th at 11:59:59 PM EST
- Submit a video demonstrating your public speaking ability
- Upload a single PDF that includes your unofficial transcript and two letters of recommendation
- If selected, participate in a live video audition with the NSCF executive committee in early January
- Attend the Goddard Memorial Dinner on March 13th, and deliver the keynote speech
- Scholarship funds will be disbursed directly to your academic institution by June 27th
This is more than a scholarship—it’s a stage to share your passion for STEM and your vision for the future of space exploration. If you have strong academic achievements, excellent communication skills, and a desire to contribute to the STEM fields, especially in space, don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to be the voice of tomorrow’s innovation.
Application Deadline: November 17
Point Foundation Flagship Scholarship
Scholarship Description
The Point Foundation Flagship Scholarship empowers LGBTQ students who are earning their undergraduate, graduate, & doctoral degrees at accredited colleges in the United States by offering financial support, community resources, and professional development.
Scholarship Details
Flagship Scholarship recipients receive financial support, access to multiple leadership development programs, mentorship or coaching, and the support of a community of scholars and alumni.
- Amount: Financial award based on need, renewable for up to four years of support.
- Funding Period: Awarded Scholars will start their scholarship in the fall, with a maximum of four years of support.
Eligibility & Requirements
The Flagship Scholarship is for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer students earning a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree.
Scholarship Eligibility:
- Must be enrolled or intending to enroll at an accredited college or university based in the United States.
- Use scholarship funds at an accredited U.S. higher education institution between fall session and the following spring.
- Be enrolled or intend to enroll in one of the following types of programs: a bachelor's degree, a master's or doctoral degree, or a medical, law, or other professional degree.
- Must be “out” as a person who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ community.
- Community college students must be transferring to a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year college or university for the academic year of the scholarship. Students who will be enrolled at a 2-year institution for the academic year of the scholarship should apply to the Community College Scholarship.
- Must be at least a senior in high school.
Selection Criteria:
- Personal history and background.
- Academic history and future plans.
- Estimate of financial costs and support.
- Community involvement and work experience.
- Demonstrated leadership or leadership potential.
Point Foundation not only provides access to college through scholarship funding, our staff community and volunteers are here to help you succeed in your school or university experience. Join hundreds of scholars in schools around the country, creating a network of peer support.
Application Deadline: November 20
Doodle for Google Scholarship
Scholarship Description
Google has always been known as a champion for creativity and for creating environments where ideas blossom into innovations, but with the Google for Doodle Scholarship, this philosophy is extended to the arts. Through this competition, artistic students have the opportunity to craft an original "doodle" that brings their personal goals and creativity to life on a global stage.
Scholarship Details
- National Winner: The overall winner receives a $55,000 college scholarship, $50,000 in tech for their school, Google hardware, and their Doodle featured on Google for a day.
- National Finalists: Five National Finalists receive a $5,000 college scholarship, Google hardware, and swag.
- State and Territory Winners: 55 state and territory winners receive Google hardware and acknowledgment on the Doodle for Google gallery.
Eligibility Criteria
- All students enrolled in US-based schools, including homeschooled students and children of military personnel abroad, can enter.
- Submissions can be in any medium, including crayons, clay, found objects, digital art, video, etc.
- Students must be 13 years of age or older.
- Submissions will be judged based on artistic merit, creativity, and theme communication.
Application Process
- Start by obtaining the entry form.
- Next, create your doodle. Artists are given freedom over their choice of materials, be it traditional art supplies or innovative digital mediums.
- Craft your artist's statement. Reflect on your creation and articulate how it encapsulates your aspirations.
- Submit your doodle. Entries are accepted online or by mail. Online, you can submit in .jpg or .png format. If you mail your entry, take a high-resolution digital photo or scan of the entry in good lighting and submit it with the entry form.
The ideal applicant for the Doodle for Google Scholarship is a student who is passionate about the arts and has a strong desire to share their vision for the future through creative expression. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a US-based school (or homeschooled) and be 13 years of age or older.
Application Deadline: November 30
5 Strong Scholarship Foundation
Scholarship Description
The 5 Strong program partners with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to provide promising student leaders with full-tuition scholarships and ongoing mentorship from matriculation to graduation. The program begins with information sessions to determine if 5 Strong is the right fit for each student. Accepted applicants are placed into teams of five scholars and participate in bimonthly College Ready Prep Sessions. 5 Strong works with participating HBCUs to secure scholarships and admission for each cohort of scholars.
Scholarship Details
- Provides full-tuition scholarships to selected students in partnership with participating HBCUs.
- Offers ongoing mentorship and support from matriculation to graduation.
- Accepted scholars join a cohort of five and attend bimonthly College Ready Prep Sessions.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must reside in the Houston, TX or Atlanta, GA metropolitan areas.
- Must be a current-year graduating high school senior.
- Must demonstrate leadership potential in the classroom and on campus.
- Must have a GPA of at least 3.0.
- Must have a minimum ACT score of 19 or a combined SAT score of 990.
Application Process
- Submit an application for the 5 Strong program.
- If accepted, participate in bimonthly College Ready Prep Sessions to prepare for college success.
- Commit to attending the selected HBCU and becoming an active member of 5 Strong.
We urge you not apply for the scholarship funding alone; we’re looking for committed, engaged students excited about joining a community and eager to do the work that comes with it!
Application Deadline: December 1
Information to Share 📢
Family Support Resources
This organization offers the necessary physical, emotional, mental and spiritual tools to help people stabilize their lives, improve their environment, and move out of a state of dependency into a state of well-being and self-sufficiency.
Whether it’s financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, childcare, job training, and other free or reduced-cost services specific to your area, essential resources can be found here.
FoodFinder’s website and app act as food pantry locators that show you when and where to get free food assistance in your area. The interactive map shows food pantries nearby – every red pin you see is a food assistance program nearby.
Managed by the GaDOE, This is a map of family support resources with an interactive map that allows you to see what is available, what they provide, hours of operation, and for stores if they accept WIC.
Counselor Connect Family Event - Local Community Resource Fair
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Scholarships
Each year the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) awards multiple scholarships to students showing dedication to the pursuit of higher education. DAR awards scholarships for students pursuing an education in history, economics, law, political science, medicine, nursing, occupational and physical therapy, elementary and secondary education, chemistry, math, science and English.
Pearls of Excellence Scholarship
Beyond the Spectrum Scholarship
Georgia Scholar Program
Identifies and honors Georgia 12th graders who have achieved excellence in school and community life.
Application Dates: January 1 – March 1
The Georgia Scholar Program Brochure will be available in late Fall.
Mental Health Corner 💭
Managing Screen Time as a Family
Core Practices
- Begin with assessment, not accusation. Ask what students find valuable online and what causes distress; use this to tailor expectations. Normalizing discussions about social media helps to create supportive, transparent norms around social media use.
- Co-create 2–3 concrete norms and revisit monthly. Examples: devices off one hour before sleep; no phones during meals; homework before recreational apps. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends family media plans with specific, developmentally appropriate rules that are written, visible, and reviewed.
- Prioritize sleep hygiene. Bedtime screen behaviors predict worse sleep one year later; screens near bedtime are consistently associated with delayed bedtimes and shorter sleep in adolescents. Charge devices outside bedrooms and set overnight “downtime.”
- Monitor for functional impairment. Red flags include marked mood changes after scrolling, persistent sleep loss, withdrawal from activities, secrecy about accounts, or academic decline. Youth commonly face high notification loads that fragment attention and increase reactivity. Over half of teens receive ~237+ notifications per day!
- Use tools sparingly and transparently. Prefer built-in controls (Apple Screen Time, Google Family Link) and app-level family features; explain what you’re using and why. The AAP’s Family Media Plan provides a structured template families can complete together.
Additional Resources:
High School Graduation Requirements 🎓
This section of the newsletter will always be here for your reference! If you have any questions about high school graduation requirements, please feel free to reach out to us.